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- Tasks: Lead and shape the British Museum's security strategy while safeguarding people and collections.
- Company: Join the iconic British Museum, a hub of culture and history in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days' leave, free exhibition access, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on security at one of the UK's most popular attractions.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in security management and crisis response required.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a diverse, inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 58162 - 58162 £ per year.
Full-time 41 hours per week Monday - Friday with occasional weekend and Bank Holiday as required. On-site in Bloomsbury, London - occasional work from home. Permanent contract £58,162 per annum. Application deadline: 12pm (midday) on 29 April 2026.
About the role
As Head of Security, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and leading the British Museum's Security strategy at a defining moment in our history. We are looking for a highly skilled, driven leader who can guide the organisation through some of the most exciting developments we have ever undertaken. You will oversee the full physical security function across our global-scale estate, safeguarding our people, collections, buildings, and assets while ensuring that security is seamlessly integrated into an exceptional visitor experience. With responsibility for a 24/7 operation, you will strengthen our security culture, continuously develop our systems, and ensure we remain resilient and responsive as we evolve.
Key areas of responsibility
- You are an accomplished security professional with extensive experience operating in complex, high-footfall environments.
- Ambitious and forward-thinking, you thrive on leading major change and have the confidence and authority to set security direction at a strategic level.
- You bring deep expertise in physical security, threat and risk management, crisis response, and operational excellence.
- Equally, you are a collaborative communicator who can influence at all levels and inspire a large, diverse team to deliver high performance.
- You understand how to balance robust protection with outstanding visitor experience; at one of the UK's most popular visitor attractions.
About you:
- Lead and evolve the Museum's physical security strategy, systems, and standards across a 24/7 operation.
- Act as the organisation's primary security expert, assessing threats, advising on major programmes and events, and developing risk-reduction plans.
- Inspire and develop a team of around 120 security professionals, ensuring high-quality training, strong leadership, and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Build and maintain trusted partnerships with internal stakeholders and external security bodies, law enforcement, and sector networks.
- Oversee incident management, crisis planning, and the effectiveness of technical security systems, ensuring robust compliance, reporting, and operational performance.
Benefits
At the British Museum, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’ve designed a benefits package that goes beyond the ordinary. Our full list of benefits can be found here, but we’ve outlined some highlights below:
- Free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access.
- 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days (and +5 days after 10 years).
- Discounts at onsite catering, Museum shops and local Bloomsbury partners.
- Social and wellbeing perks including Staff parties, social clubs, CSSC sports and leisure, and support from the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship.
- Peer support and allyship with five diversity networks for community.
- Learning and development through courses, mentoring and Athena as well as support for professional qualifications.
- Employee Assistance Programme available 24/7 for counselling, wellbeing support and more.
- Eyecare vouchers for VDU tests and contributions toward glasses.
- Enhanced parental leave including maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
- Support for carers through Employers for Carers.
- Civil Service Pension Scheme with a secure, inflation-linked defined benefit.
- Interest-free loans including season ticket, rental deposit and bicycle loans.
Our Values
Our values drive everything we do, from how we handle our objects to how we work in our team to fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and empowered:
- Care Deeply
- Embrace the Unknown
- Spark Curiosity
- Value Many Voices
Additional details
If you have any additional needs that we should be aware of to support you with your application, please provide details.
Other information
We may be able to provide visa sponsorship for this role, subject to meeting eligibility requirements.
Head of Security employer: THE BRITISH MUSEUM
Contact Detail:
THE BRITISH MUSEUM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Security
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the security field, especially those who might have insights into the British Museum. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the museum's current security strategies and challenges. Show us you’re not just a candidate but someone who’s genuinely interested in shaping their future!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! We want to hear about times you’ve inspired teams or managed crises. Tailor your examples to reflect the values of the British Museum, like care and curiosity.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Security
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Security role. Highlight your experience in physical security, crisis response, and team leadership. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about security and how you can contribute to the British Museum's mission. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a leader, we want to know how you've inspired teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've developed security strategies or improved systems. This will help us see your potential impact on our organisation.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE BRITISH MUSEUM
✨Know Your Security Strategy
Before the interview, dive deep into the British Museum's current security strategy and any recent developments. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to shaping their future security landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style and how you've successfully managed large teams in high-pressure environments. Think about specific instances where you inspired change or improved security culture, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand Visitor Experience
Since the role involves balancing security with visitor experience, come equipped with ideas on how to enhance safety without compromising the enjoyment of visitors. This shows that you understand the unique challenges of the position and are proactive in finding solutions.
✨Build Connections
Research key stakeholders within the British Museum and be prepared to discuss how you would build and maintain relationships with them. Highlight your experience in collaborating with law enforcement and external security bodies, as this is crucial for the role.